Laura L. Strobel

Laura Lee Strobel, a guidepost of laughter and wisdom, passed away peacefully on May 29, 2025, at her home in Ellicott City, MD, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on August 8, 1959, in Baltimore, MD, to the late Howard and Shirley Kermisch, Laura's early years were filled with the warmth of family and the charm of her neighborhood. 

Laura's spirit was characterized by her sharp wit and boundless intelligence. Her laughter was infectious, and her sense of adventure guided her through her life’s experiences. She was a loving wife to her husband Gary Strobel, whom she met at The United States Government Printing Office in 2008 and later married in 2011. Together they shared a love that was both deep and true, a partnership full of laughter, adventure, and good food.

Laura was the beloved mother of Joseph Fiorani, Kelly Marriott, and Kimberly Fiorani, and stepmother to Silica Strobel. She was a cherished sister to Steve Kermisch, his spouse, Debbie Kermisch, and Jennifer Cimino. Her role as a grandmother to MacKenzie, Reagan, Ripken, Hazel, Olive, Bear, and Mack was one she held most dear, showering them with love while reveling in their every achievement.

A writer at heart, Laura's calligraphy was not only impeccably clean but award-winning. Her organizational skills were unparalleled, and she was an expert multitasker, always planning and executing. Laura's career at The United States Government Printing Office was marked by her dedication to excellence, especially in the craft of case-bound bookbinding, a skill in which she was an undisputed expert. She retired in 2019 after many years of committed service, leaving behind a legacy of hard, blue collar work and high standards.

Laura's interests were as diverse as her talents. A fan of the Ravens and the Orioles, she also found great joy in spending time at Ocean City, a tradition that began with her parents and continued with her children and later her husband Gary. The beach was Laura's sanctuary, a place where she could indulge in the simple pleasures of the ocean, a panoramic bay view, Maryland crabs, and a refreshing Corona Light.

Laura's later years were enriched by a close-knit group of friends with whom she shared weekly lunches and endless laughter. She was an avid supporter of her grandchildren's sports endeavors, often found on the sidelines of soccer, lacrosse, and football games, cheering them on. Her love for animals was profound, and her dedication to her pets, Mr. Grey, Feral, and Braven, was unwavering. They provided her with comfort and companionship, especially during her final days.

Laura's life was a testament to living fully with humor and adventure at the forefront. She approached every challenge with grace and every joy with gratitude. She will be profoundly missed by her family, friends, and all who have had the pleasure of knowing her. Laura's legacy will live on in the hearts of her loved ones and the countless lives she touched with her adventurous spirit and loving nature. Her journey on earth has ended, but the memories she created will endure forever.

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